freelance writer based in Shanghai

Colombo

There appear to be some quite sophisticated scams. One is where someone strikes up a conversation and talks about in this case a special elephant festival on only today and then walks off. Not long afterwards a tuk tuk driver came up and happened to mention the very same festival. Of course there is no festival but a very expensive tuk tuk ride.

Food

Hotel de Pilawoos

The location on the map in the Lonely Planet is wrong. The address as is stated – 417 Galle Road – is correct and it is south of the Hotel Renuka.

The place is quite basic but the food is good. Kotthu is not served at breakfast time. Try the cheese paratha – it’s one of the best I’ve had.

Paradise Vegetarian Food Court

This is a modern looking place with air conditioning unlike most of the grungy local restaurants. Prices are still though very reasonable and they do a good line in fruit juices – try some of the more unusual varieties such as woodapple and amberella. They also have the usual trays of food, but a lot cleaner looking than in most places, and great tasting cakes.

Address is Sambuddha Jayanthi Mw, Colombo 05. Tel 011 2580 006.

Accommodation

Alfred Court Accommodation

This is well located, just off Galle Road. Rooms are comfortable and unlike many places in Sri Lanka have tea making facilities and free Wifi. Also has flat screen TVs and modern bathrooms. They seem to only have about 4 rooms. I paid $50/night.

Only real complaints are there are no mosquito nets – we were eaten alive as a result – and when trying to leave early – 7.15am – the doors were locked and it was difficult to find anyone to open up.